For nearly two decades, a retired art teacher has been meticulously trimming a hedge outside his residence into the shape of a reclining nude female figure.
Keith Tyssen, a 90-year-old pensioner, decided back in 2005 to express his passion for sculpting by transforming the hedge in front of his house into a depiction of a woman.
Named Gloria by Keith, this 5ft tall topiary catches the attention of passersby in Sheffield, with many stopping to take pictures of the unique creation.
Despite encountering instances of intoxicated individuals climbing on the sculpture for inappropriate acts, Keith remains steadfast in his dedication to maintaining Gloria’s form.
He remarked, “I am now in my 90s but still physically capable, so I intend to continue tending to her. Gloria is here to stay, perched on my wall.”
Keith further added, “Shaping her likeness is no easy task, so receiving compliments is truly gratifying. People’s smiles upon seeing Gloria bring me joy.”
Keith clarified that he did not initially plan to craft a nude lady when he commenced sculpting his hedge into a larger-than-life feminine form.
His expertise in figure drawing, acquired during his time as an art student and later as a teacher, enabled him to shape Gloria’s silhouette with precision.
Reflecting on the evolution of his creation, Keith shared, “What began as a figure resembling a monster engaging with a lamppost at my garden’s edge gradually morphed into a guardian maiden.”
“Gloria took shape over a few years, a process I found quite enjoyable. The inspiration behind the woman emerges from my passion for visual creativity, a pursuit I find gratifying,” he added.
Over the years, Keith has had to address instances of inebriated individuals using Gloria as a prop for inappropriate photographs, causing damage to her form. However, such incidents have subsided in recent times.
Keith maintains Gloria as a means to promote public art, advocating for more aesthetic and contemplative artistic expressions in society.
He advocates, “Our community would greatly benefit from the presence of more art in public spaces that exudes beauty, reflection, and subtlety.”
“Art does not necessarily have to evoke laughter, but a touch of thoughtful, mild humor can be quite enriching,” Keith emphasized.
Keith finds fulfillment in the responsibility of preserving the hedge’s aesthetics, relishing his role in fostering creativity within his environment.
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